Sanctions for Russia, Obama says

Monday, March 17, 2014 - 01:13

March 17 - U.S. imposes sanctions on Russia, following Crimea's vote to secede from Ukraine and join Russia. Gavino Garay reports.

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A day after Crimea's referendum vote to join Russia...
Washington is retaliating with sanctions aimed at Russia.
U.S. President Barack Obama.
(SOUNDBITE) U.S. PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA SAYING:
"Today, I'm announcing a series of measures that will continue to increase the cost on Russia, and on those responsible for what is happening in Ukraine. First, as authorized by the executive order I signed two weeks ago, we are imposing sanctions on specific individuals responsible for undermining the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and government of Ukraine."
The White House posted a list of its sanctions to its website.
Obama's order freezes U.S. assets of seven high-ranking Russian government officials and four individuals identified as Crimea-based separatist leaders. It also bans their ability to travel to the United States.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, himself, was not sanctioned.
Crimeans voted in favor of joining Russia in Sunday's referendum. The vote was not recognized by the West.

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